The Oyo State Police Command has rescued two children abducted by armed men in Lanlate, Ibarapa East Local Government Area, and arrested four suspects in connection with the crime.
The Commissioner of Police, Olugbenga Abimbola, disclosed this during a press briefing in Ibadan, attributing the successful rescue to a coordinated operation involving the Police, the Amotekun Corps, local vigilantes, and hunters.
According to the Police Commissioner, the kidnappers stormed Ebinpejo Village on Friday, June 27, attacking residents, ransacking homes, and abducting the two children before fleeing into a nearby forest.
He explained that intelligence-led operations enabled the joint security team to locate the suspects’ hideout deep inside the forest. Upon sighting the operatives, the kidnappers reportedly opened fire, leading to a gun duel.
During the operation, one suspect, Umaru Usman, was arrested with gunshot wounds, while three mobile phones were recovered from the scene.
Another suspect, Abdullahi Ahmed, was subsequently apprehended with injuries believed to have been sustained during the exchange of gunfire.
Further investigations led to the arrest of Sunday Idowu, who allegedly provided logistical support to the gang, and Muhammed Ibrahim Shina, who reportedly travelled from Ilorin, Kwara State, to participate in the abduction.
CP Abimbola said all four suspects remain in police custody and are assisting investigators in efforts to apprehend other members of the criminal syndicate.
He added that the two children were rescued alive, given medical attention, and safely reunited with their family.
